Ladakh is set to become home to South East Asia's inaugural Night Sky Sanctuary, as announced by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. This sanctuary, established in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bengaluru under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, aims to enhance astro-tourism in the region. Dr. Singh commended the active cooperation of Ladakh's Lt Governor, Brig (Retd) B.D. Mishra, in the project. The proposed Dark Sky Reserve, situated at Hanle village within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, is strategically positioned adjacent to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, renowned for hosting the world's second-highest optical telescope at an elevation of 4500 meters. Encompassing 1,073 square kilometers, this Night Sky Reserve is anticipated to captivate stargazers globally and boost India's standing in astronomy.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed intentions to seek the inauguration of the Night Sky Reserve by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the Ministry of Science & Technology and CSIR. The announcement coincided with the inauguration of the 'Ladakh’s Pride' exhibition, marking the fourth anniversary of Ladakh's status as a Union Territory. Against the backdrop of recent space mission successes like Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 solar mission, the establishment of this unique Dark Sky Reserve adds another celestial dimension to India's scientific achievements.